I'm gonna use this video to show people why I love the matrix so much!!! After owning 7 of these things, doing maintenance, pulling out and putting back in the motor/transmission is definitely easier than most cars I've own or worked on in the past. My current project is a 2004 Matrix XRS and I love it!!! P.S.: If you get the key and turn it two times to the right, it'll unlock the hatch glass by itself incase your remote or hatch button stop working! One turn to the right will lock the hatch door and glass and obviously turning to the left will unlock. Very versatile car!!!
@@risingwarrior9937 what about timing belt and water pump on these? Is that a big deal or nah? See a lot of em for sale, 150k+ miles and no one ever mentions it....? What kind of maintenance you do on it to get 400k miles outta it?
does the odomoter really stop at 299k? was going to look at a vibe but the seller said the odo stopped so they mentally calculated the miles were about 301k
Enjoyed the video. I have a 2003 matrix XR with the 5 speed. Paid $1600 for it! I bought it at 174,000 miles and now it has 184,000 miles. I changed all the fluids, new brakes, new wheel bearings. Now it's a solid little car.
Those 1ZZ-FE engines are outstanding. My last vehicle was a 05 Rolla S 5M/T, and I was never afraid to push it in every gear for a decade. Still ran strong after it was totalled by another vehicle. I miss it dearly for the 30mpg, but I wouldn't trade my 04 mXRS for it.
The 1zzfe is a strong engine even the ones that burned oil. I owned one that went all the way to 300k miles no issues. Same idea tho I wouldn’t trade my 05 cXRS. Night and day difference
i have bought countless used cars in the 2003-2006 range and my 2003 matrix has been the most reliable and longest lasting out of them all!! i will continue to buy them.
After reading these comments I'm starting not to believe anything Google say..I'm about to buy a 2006 matrix so I did some research and Google say that customers has reported engine and transmission problems with the matrix..I'm still going to take a chance and get this one tho..
Yeah, good video, I just got a blue 06 XR in June and I already installed some D2 springs 2"&1.5" spacers 25mm & 15mm it handles excellent. Shifter solid brass bushings/ends thanks for the video on that it shifts much better. Last some black bezel head lamps. BTW, I have an extra set of new OEM head lamps if you are interested.
Nice review Sir. I own of a Canadian Market 2005 Matrix TRD Edition with 189K Km on it, bought it new in 05'. Such a reliable car! I also own a 2019 Corolla and at this point only use the Matrix for hauling stuff around. I figure with TLC I should get another 180K out of it, at least I hope I will. Happy New Year and stay Safe.
Got a head gasket leak on my moms @125k and it was maintained well too. Still running fine and it’s just and external leak so I’m fine with that and my idle is fine too at the moment. Personally I like the Celica better. I have a 02 GTS from an original owner with 100k on her and It’s never been redlined. Changing those thrust bolts now and just lowered her with tein coils and kyb agx. So far so good and we also done an ansi catback with an obx cai and it sounds crazy fast for a slow car. My other ride is a 5th gen camaro ss so their really no comparison, but I like driving the Celica and actually get more looks too. Great video bro 😎
Four years ago I bought my sister's 2003 Pontiac Vibe (Matrix clone) off of her thinking I would give it to me grand daughter. Well that plan went side ways and I ended up with an extra car. I drove it once in awhile and finally parked my truck to use it full time. It was an 80,000 mile car when I got it and I've put 70,000 mile on it since. Oil changes and fuel is all it has need until a month ago when the starter motor went out. It was a job I could do, but I passed it on to my local garage instead. One starter in 150,000 miles seems a pretty good value to me. These cars bring a fair purchase price in Michigan. Finding one for less than $2000 is rare or high, HIGH mileage and abused. But they're worth it. Mine is base model automatic. I'm trying to trade with my son-in-law for his same year GT model with the 180 hp 6 speed set up. He's not taking the deal.
@@2zzlow Move to Lansing. Michigan. I have a picture of mine and two others accidentally parked in a big box store parking lot next to each other. They have seem to migrate to this area, I can hardly leave my rural house without seeing one.
I have the baddest Matrix of all. 2003 XRS (slick top, 17" wheels). The only mods are a K&N intake filter and oil filter, but the biggest power gains I felt were from re-plumbing an air tube from the grill to the stock airbox. Stock it breathes air from behind the headlight (cant breath) once you do that mod you will get rid of that "dip" in power at 4000rpm!! I got it super cheap with a screwed up motor so I did a JDM 2ZZ-GE swap from Toyota Fielder (Corolla wagon), OEM water pump, OEM clutch, gaskets etc. Most reliable vehicle in history basically, The motor is over built to handle the 8300rpm so it lasts FOREVER during regular driving.
I have an 04 Matrix Base Model 5spd Manual. Can confirm that it's an incredibly reliable, versatile, and practical car. Only thing I've had to do to mine was a leaky rad ($40 part and a couple hours time), and just regular maintenance. 10/10 I recommend that everyone get a Matrix.
@@phabeondominguez5971 Water pump isn't a big deal. There are countless tutorials online to walk you through it. Since it is the same drive train as the Corolla of the same generation, parts are plentiful and inexpensive. My Matrix has about 271,000km on it and it is on the original OEM water pump. Original OEM alternator and starter, original AC compressor / condenser. Only thing I had to change out on it was the radiator since it had a slight leak. Was a $40 part from rockauto, whole job took about 2hr with basic hand tools.
@@user-ne3ze4zz7r ahh gotcha, I was coming from the timing belt/water pump major service world of cars, namely my 2002 IS300, jus did that plus valve gasket seals, in other words my 90k maintenance was 8yrs or 20k miles overdue. Any other major concerns nor issues to be aware of with the Matrix? Most likely picking up an 03' XRS tomorrow morning..
@@phabeondominguez5971 If you are looking at a Matrix XRS they are pretty reliable. The C60 6-speed gearbox that the XRS comes with is apparently better than the 5-speed C59 that the base model and the XR come with. The C59 5-speed is a relatively weak manual gearbox, and they suffered from quite a few issues with bearing failing and destroying the transmission, or early clutch failure. (Apparently due to an undersized clutch for this weight class of vehicle)(Mainly in the 03 and 04 model years). The 2ZZ engine is not quite as reliable as the 1ZZ (Mainly due to some oil burning issues in the higher mileage engines), but if it was properly maintained and previous owner(s) kept fresh oil in it, it shouldn't be too bad. Do pull a spark plug and look for fouling before purchasing, though. Also note that the 2ZZ requires premium high octane fuel to run properly and not throw timing.
My wife's car which became our family car four our two girls.... At 200k km (124k miles) I've refilled the AC refrigerant, switched out the radio head unit, fixed a tangled/retracted seat belt, door window rattle (loose bolt) and used fiberfix to patch up the exhaust... 17 years old and still running like a dream. It's not as roomy as a much larger SUV but pretty darn close... Too bad Toyota doesn't sell them anymore. Really great car for DIY jobs
@J Lousy the best part about them is that they have the exact same mechanical parts as a Corolla 9th gen. 200,000 kilometres is nothing for a Matrix. I’ve seen them with 5-800,000 kilometres, still running strong, with original engine & transmission. If you take really good care if it, it should indefinitely last that long
Bought my 2003 in 2001 when they first came out for $14,995. My only problem has been emissions and I have put 2 catalytic converters in it and I am getting that code again. I have been looking to replace it for 2 years but can’t find anything I like more for under 25k.
Got a 2006 XR..love it..over 230k and running strong, no leaks, only needs a cat..got that engine light on..but runs great..why bother fixing it... These cars run forever..that 1.8 is bulletproof...
I just bought a rust free high mileage (over 300K miles) 04 XRS on 12/2021. Did I overpay, sure I did. But I don't think the price is going down anymore. These are great cars!
Man, you've just canceled the idea of me selling my 04 XR!! 😍😎 I own it for 9 years, my first car ever, and the most reliable one at our home Never driven it slowly and when bored you just reach the max speed easily! On the high ways I enjoy overtaking BMWs' and Mercedes's' at the same engine level or slightly higher 🤣🤣 The car is totally stock but it can really act as a sleeper at high speeds The engine needs replacement now 😥 not because of speeding or high revs! but because of the mechanic fault when I noticed that it was loosing oil level too much and he missed that the engine sealings were busted (I hate him so much), it ran on one liter of oil and the bearing sound is awful. Got it for 100,000 Miles, and now it got only 160000 Thanks Man, you need to build the Matrix Gangster with your family 😂 I wished that Toyota kept their Production line under the Name (Matrix), although the new Corolla Hatchback is nice and it's said that it's the new matrix. But Man , you feel that you're in emotionally connected more with Matrix name.
What's the average life of 2007 Toyota Matrix / Corolla water pump. . The car has 159K miles and I have no idea if the water pump has ever been replace and Toyota history record shows up to 90000 miles. Do you think it has been replaced once? It's not leaking. Car belongs to my son and has been very reliable but he is planning to take a long summer trip.
I regretted getting my matrix XR, it’s a 2007 model and now it has 207k miles on it. It’s slowly starting to grow on me though, and I always look forward to driving it. Im a senior in high school about to get my license in a month, and I’m going to try and make it last to 300k minimum.
@@2zzlow update, 214k miles, still love it. Drive it every day it has never skipped a beat and it has never had any issues whatsoever, very easy to do maintenance
I too have a 03 matrix xr with 95000 I don't drive it much but I do love the car, my son calls it a piece of junk only because it's 20yrs old but everything still works including the sun roof
I bought a car just like this literally from a grandma with like 30 some thousand miles for five grand back in 2011. unfortunately I sold it 3 years later. that was a real nice car, leather seats and sunroof, factory body kit ,but no abs.
Thanks for the video. Would you still say purchasing a Toyota Matrix 2003 is a good idea in the year 2023? please what you would consider before buying a locally used one. Thanks
absolutely, even if they break down parts are available and very cheap. id personally look for a 2005+ matrix just because the 1zz engine was perfected by that time.
Hi! I have the 2007 matrix and I'm having an issue where when I brake slowly, the car starts jerking slightly forward and backwards. Would you say that it's probably the same jerking issue you described? Or would I just need to put new brakes, rotors and brake fluid?
@@2zzlow amazing , the car runs ljke new ! Ill need to buy a touch up for the paint here and there but other than that its perfect ! Got it for 6000$ it only has 172 000KM on it !
Hey, odd question. If I want to remove the side skirts off my XRS and go with the base model look (better ground clearance), am I going to end up with all the holes and slits from the clips? Any way to make it look decent?
I bought a blue, 2003 XR. Best car ever. It was some kind of limited sport edition. Later I found out they mfg only 26 of them. I never saw one with the same front end. Fully loaded, and tailgating was perfect, oh lord that car witnessed some crappy performances by the Houston Texans.
I have an 2005 Toyota Matrix as well with just over 200,000 miles. Good reliable commuter vehicle like you said. Just have one quick question regarding rust and paint fading. Just curious if your roof is starting or has already started to rust like mine along with the paint peeling on the hood like mine. Have been researching this and supposedly in Toyota blogs I have been reading through the 2000s model Toyota cars were not equipped with the proper rust/oxidation prevention coat when originally manufactured. This problem has not only occurred in the matrix models also other 2000s Toyota models. While searching this on google I’ve noticed I’m not the only one that this has happened to especially on Toyota Matrix models like ours. Hopefully this issue/defect has not occurred on your car. If so just curious as to how you went about repairing/fixing it. Been researching and trying to find a low cost method to fix my car. Any input/info you can offer is appreciated. Thanks.
@Jeepguy30022 that was never an issue with my silver Matrix. The problem was owners weren’t waxing their cars. I know plenty of people that wax their old Toyotas, they are 20 years old, & still look brand new. My Matrix is from 2006 & still looks great. So is my uncle’s identical 2005 Matrix. Any 20 year old car will fade badly if you don’t wax it. And it’s not too often that I see a rusty Matrix, & I’m in Canada. Toyota was really good at Zinc Primer, electroplating, even back 20 years ago. This 1992 Camry I looked at with 280,000 kilometres pretty much had no rust. But the paint was gone. 30 years of no wax will do that.
Hi! I just bought a 2005 matrix and was planning on changing the stereo, I want to upgrade to a touch screen android auto/apple car stereo, do you have any recommendations or do you know if I would need a install kit for it to fit?
Question for you. I purchased a 2006 Matrix xr stick shift. The car is awesome even though it has over 200,000 miles. I cannot figure out what I did to stop the clock from working and the lights don't come on when opening the door. My insurance is paid by the mile and after sticking the gadget into the car, that is when the problem started. Could that it be it? No overhead lights or sunroof. The lights work when turned on but not when the door is opened as it did before. The manual is not helping me. Thanks for your response.
You didn't comment on the fog lights! Mine looks just like yours, but it an 04 XR 4wd with 101K miles and has the 16in rims. Got it last Nov. It was neglected some but slowly I'm bringing it back to life. I was getting 24mpg but now its at 30mpg.
Just by keeping up with the regular maintenance items that were neglected by previous owner. Also there's a few issues with this engines, like the intake manifold gasket and throttle body cleaning. Also did the transmission fluid and strainer and suspension items that we're worn out.
@@sebastianbechtold2417 what about timing belt and water pump on these? Is that a big deal or nah? See a lot of em for sale, 150k+ miles and no one ever mentions it....?
Sell me those super rare rear seat storage bags 🗣😅jkjk The second generation hatch looks slicker but other then that small cosmetic difference the 1st generation is the best vehicle I've owned. What cant it do??
I'm gonna use this video to show people why I love the matrix so much!!! After owning 7 of these things, doing maintenance, pulling out and putting back in the motor/transmission is definitely easier than most cars I've own or worked on in the past. My current project is a 2004 Matrix XRS and I love it!!!
P.S.: If you get the key and turn it two times to the right, it'll unlock the hatch glass by itself incase your remote or hatch button stop working! One turn to the right will lock the hatch door and glass and obviously turning to the left will unlock. Very versatile car!!!
thanks fam appreciate it!
How did you go through 7 of them?
So my question is how tf did you own 7 of them do you fix and sell them or literally all 7 stopped working or something?
My good buddy Steve buys and sells them. Great business for anyone
@@PABLO6941 I buy and sell them, as of know I’ve owned 12 haha.
I absolutely love my 2004 Matrix XR with 400,000 miles. Original Engine .
Holy crap that’s a lot!
@@2zzlow the engine is still going strong. I love this little car. Gets good gas mileage, I only have to refill with gas every two weeks.
@@risingwarrior9937 what about timing belt and water pump on these? Is that a big deal or nah? See a lot of em for sale, 150k+ miles and no one ever mentions it....? What kind of maintenance you do on it to get 400k miles outta it?
does the odomoter really stop at 299k? was going to look at a vibe but the seller said the odo stopped so they mentally calculated the miles were about 301k
No way!!
Enjoyed the video. I have a 2003 matrix XR with the 5 speed. Paid $1600 for it! I bought it at 174,000 miles and now it has 184,000 miles. I changed all the fluids, new brakes, new wheel bearings. Now it's a solid little car.
Great to hear! they are awesome
Got a 2004 Manual XR 242,000 Miles for $1300
@@alejandroochoa3541 wow where are you finding these so cheap? Marketplace?
@@alejandroochoa3541 how do u like it
basically matrix is a toyota with different body style, these cars are very reliable and strong i like them
indeed! look at the owners manual. its called the Corolla Matrix
I've got a 2008 Matrix Xr with about 200k miles on it. Still runs decent. Haven't had any major problems with it.
thats good to hear, very reliable cars.
I just bought a 2003 xrs with a 6 speed manual and 201k miles on the engine and transmission, it drives so smooth
I have a 2006 Matrix 4WD with 153k miles. Excellent car. Easy to fix and cheap parts. I call it the love child of a Ferrari and a UPS truck.
lmao right on!
What mpg do you get with the 4wd?
@@joepearlzz8504 36mpg.
Those 1ZZ-FE engines are outstanding. My last vehicle was a 05 Rolla S 5M/T, and I was never afraid to push it in every gear for a decade. Still ran strong after it was totalled by another vehicle. I miss it dearly for the 30mpg, but I wouldn't trade my 04 mXRS for it.
The 1zzfe is a strong engine even the ones that burned oil. I owned one that went all the way to 300k miles no issues. Same idea tho I wouldn’t trade my 05 cXRS. Night and day difference
@@2zzlow mine burned oil and I recently did the piston rings on it. It was super easy and cheap.
Love this video format
Will do one on my Corolla XRS and 06 xb
i have bought countless used cars in the 2003-2006 range and my 2003 matrix has been the most reliable and longest lasting out of them all!! i will continue to buy them.
Really
good to hear! mine is a trooper
After reading these comments I'm starting not to believe anything Google say..I'm about to buy a 2006 matrix so I did some research and Google say that customers has reported engine and transmission problems with the matrix..I'm still going to take a chance and get this one tho..
Yeah, good video, I just got a blue 06 XR in June and I already installed some D2 springs 2"&1.5" spacers 25mm & 15mm it handles excellent. Shifter solid brass bushings/ends thanks for the video on that it shifts much better. Last some black bezel head lamps. BTW, I have an extra set of new OEM head lamps if you are interested.
do you have an Instagram? message me im interested
@@2zzlow
Yeah, i reached out to you yesterday, 2zz_low is the one I clicked on, I'm at, instagram: glennallen540 I'm local, San Jose.
Thanks for the video!
You bet!
Beautiful review... love it
Thank you 🤗
I have a 2010 and da wife a 2009. Can’t kill em. Nice vid.
exactly! they are good cars.
Nice review Sir. I own of a Canadian Market 2005 Matrix TRD Edition with 189K Km on it, bought it new in 05'. Such a reliable car! I also own a 2019 Corolla and at this point only use the Matrix for hauling stuff around. I figure with TLC I should get another 180K out of it, at least I hope I will.
Happy New Year and stay Safe.
Thanks for sharing and happy new years as well
How is it for winter driving? Any issues feeling small or merging or overtaking on the highway?
Thank you for the heads up about the power steering leak got one with 160,000 I will keep an eye out for it.
No problem 👍
Got a head gasket leak on my moms @125k and it was maintained well too. Still running fine and it’s just and external leak so I’m fine with that and my idle is fine too at the moment. Personally I like the Celica better. I have a 02 GTS from an original owner with 100k on her and It’s never been redlined. Changing those thrust bolts now and just lowered her with tein coils and kyb agx. So far so good and we also done an ansi catback with an obx cai and it sounds crazy fast for a slow car. My other ride is a 5th gen camaro ss so their really no comparison, but I like driving the Celica and actually get more looks too. Great video bro 😎
thanks for the comment and no problem fam
Thanks so much. Contemplating buying one soon (2005).
Go for it!
Falling in love with my 03 Matrix all over again...🤣 so jealousy of your back seat storage bags...
I found one side cargo net bag in a junkyard. Still on he plastic bag from the dealer. Ditto two unopened bags of the cargo hold downs.
lmao i never seen them on matrix at the junk yard before.
Four years ago I bought my sister's 2003 Pontiac Vibe (Matrix clone) off of her thinking I would give it to me grand daughter. Well that plan went side ways and I ended up with an extra car. I drove it once in awhile and finally parked my truck to use it full time. It was an 80,000 mile car when I got it and I've put 70,000 mile on it since. Oil changes and fuel is all it has need until a month ago when the starter motor went out. It was a job I could do, but I passed it on to my local garage instead. One starter in 150,000 miles seems a pretty good value to me. These cars bring a fair purchase price in Michigan. Finding one for less than $2000 is rare or high, HIGH mileage and abused. But they're worth it.
Mine is base model automatic. I'm trying to trade with my son-in-law for his same year GT model with the 180 hp 6 speed set up. He's not taking the deal.
Pontiac Vibe GT are sure alot harder to find. i dont see that many out there...
@@2zzlow Move to Lansing. Michigan. I have a picture of mine and two others accidentally parked in a big box store parking lot next to each other. They have seem to migrate to this area, I can hardly leave my rural house without seeing one.
I have the baddest Matrix of all. 2003 XRS (slick top, 17" wheels). The only mods are a K&N intake filter and oil filter, but the biggest power gains I felt were from re-plumbing an air tube from the grill to the stock airbox. Stock it breathes air from behind the headlight (cant breath) once you do that mod you will get rid of that "dip" in power at 4000rpm!! I got it super cheap with a screwed up motor so I did a JDM 2ZZ-GE swap from Toyota Fielder (Corolla wagon), OEM water pump, OEM clutch, gaskets etc. Most reliable vehicle in history basically, The motor is over built to handle the 8300rpm so it lasts FOREVER during regular driving.
thanks for sharing my friend
Matrix is an amazing car. Good video.
good stuff, thanks for the video. i just bought a 2006 pontiac vibe, looks great, runs great.
No problem...Same car, right on!
I have an 04 Matrix Base Model 5spd Manual. Can confirm that it's an incredibly reliable, versatile, and practical car. Only thing I've had to do to mine was a leaky rad ($40 part and a couple hours time), and just regular maintenance. 10/10 I recommend that everyone get a Matrix.
glad to know you enjoy it!
what about timing belt and water pump on these? Is that a big deal or nah? See a lot of em for sale, 150k+ miles and no one ever mentions it....?
@@phabeondominguez5971 Water pump isn't a big deal. There are countless tutorials online to walk you through it. Since it is the same drive train as the Corolla of the same generation, parts are plentiful and inexpensive. My Matrix has about 271,000km on it and it is on the original OEM water pump. Original OEM alternator and starter, original AC compressor / condenser. Only thing I had to change out on it was the radiator since it had a slight leak. Was a $40 part from rockauto, whole job took about 2hr with basic hand tools.
@@user-ne3ze4zz7r ahh gotcha, I was coming from the timing belt/water pump major service world of cars, namely my 2002 IS300, jus did that plus valve gasket seals, in other words my 90k maintenance was 8yrs or 20k miles overdue. Any other major concerns nor issues to be aware of with the Matrix? Most likely picking up an 03' XRS tomorrow morning..
@@phabeondominguez5971 If you are looking at a Matrix XRS they are pretty reliable. The C60 6-speed gearbox that the XRS comes with is apparently better than the 5-speed C59 that the base model and the XR come with. The C59 5-speed is a relatively weak manual gearbox, and they suffered from quite a few issues with bearing failing and destroying the transmission, or early clutch failure. (Apparently due to an undersized clutch for this weight class of vehicle)(Mainly in the 03 and 04 model years). The 2ZZ engine is not quite as reliable as the 1ZZ (Mainly due to some oil burning issues in the higher mileage engines), but if it was properly maintained and previous owner(s) kept fresh oil in it, it shouldn't be too bad. Do pull a spark plug and look for fouling before purchasing, though. Also note that the 2ZZ requires premium high octane fuel to run properly and not throw timing.
Bought a New 2010 back in day for our daughter first car, sold it 5 years later and still had a really strong resales value.👍
Very nice!
I just got a 2005 matrix xr 160k miles for $800 usd and am loving it
thats cheap! great find
DM me sir
7.5K USD for Matrix 2005 in my country 😂
@@fitnesstvshow Thats what I paid for a 2005 Matrix.
I see you with the Wangan midnight song great tune also great car
I’m Tired of hearing the same non copyrighted TH-cam music that’s in half of these videos on TH-cam
I’m about to buy a matrix tomorrow for work use, I think it’s solid for it. 140k miles
i just bought another one that's supercharged check my recent upload
Awesome Car! sounds pretty nice too.
thanks fam!
Cool. I have a 2006 Matrix with 196k. Love this xar.
Good choice!
great video
im waiting on my neighbor to sell me theirs when his wife wont be able to drive anymore, original older couple with 130k, 2003
damn probably not abused.
One of the best and funnest car I owned was my 05 Toyota Matrix XR. I wish i would of got another one instead of a newer corolla.
new corolla is big and bulky IMO compared to the matrix. Park next to one and you will see
So many Toyotas, so little time!
I actually got a Husky 41”x24” tool chest in my Scion xB, top and bottom sections!
sheeesh should show me! sounds interesting
@@2zzlow I think I have pics on my Instagram. I have a video on here too. Garage-uation, or something like that
My wife's car which became our family car four our two girls.... At 200k km (124k miles) I've refilled the AC refrigerant, switched out the radio head unit, fixed a tangled/retracted seat belt, door window rattle (loose bolt) and used fiberfix to patch up the exhaust... 17 years old and still running like a dream. It's not as roomy as a much larger SUV but pretty darn close... Too bad Toyota doesn't sell them anymore. Really great car for DIY jobs
indeed. the corolla hatch was suppose to replace the matrix but to me it doesn't seem the same
@J Lousy the best part about them is that they have the exact same mechanical parts as a Corolla 9th gen. 200,000 kilometres is nothing for a Matrix. I’ve seen them with 5-800,000 kilometres, still running strong, with original engine & transmission. If you take really good care if it, it should indefinitely last that long
dope video
Thanks 💯
Bought my 2003 in 2001 when they first came out for $14,995. My only problem has been emissions and I have put 2 catalytic converters in it and I am getting that code again. I have been looking to replace it for 2 years but can’t find anything I like more for under 25k.
Got a 2006 XR..love it..over 230k and running strong, no leaks, only needs a cat..got that engine light on..but runs great..why bother fixing it...
These cars run forever..that 1.8 is bulletproof...
i agree, having a bad cat wont do much damage unless its clogged so be careful.
I just bought a rust free high mileage (over 300K miles) 04 XRS on 12/2021. Did I overpay, sure I did. But I don't think the price is going down anymore. These are great cars!
LOL you didnt give me a price fam. Prices on vehicles are for sure out of whack right now.
I paid way too much, like 4500 before tax, but that's how much things are around the Pacific Northwest. My wife wasn't too happy
@@puregsr They sell for more now
Man, you've just canceled the idea of me selling my 04 XR!! 😍😎
I own it for 9 years, my first car ever, and the most reliable one at our home
Never driven it slowly and when bored you just reach the max speed easily! On the high ways I enjoy overtaking BMWs' and Mercedes's' at the same engine level or slightly higher 🤣🤣
The car is totally stock but it can really act as a sleeper at high speeds
The engine needs replacement now 😥 not because of speeding or high revs! but because of the mechanic fault when I noticed that it was loosing oil level too much and he missed that the engine sealings were busted (I hate him so much), it ran on one liter of oil and the bearing sound is awful.
Got it for 100,000 Miles, and now it got only 160000
Thanks Man, you need to build the Matrix Gangster with your family 😂
I wished that Toyota kept their Production line under the Name (Matrix), although the new Corolla Hatchback is nice and it's said that it's the new matrix. But Man , you feel that you're in emotionally connected more with Matrix name.
Ill be buying an 03 XRS auto for my dad or a M-Theory soon.
@@2zzlow I wish you a good luck with that, and hope you find a clean one also 💜
I had a 2007 Pontiac Vibe which is the same car and i loved it
I love my Matrix XR, Has 239300 miles. With minor repairs.
What's the average life of 2007 Toyota Matrix / Corolla water pump. . The car has 159K miles and I have no idea if the water pump has ever been replace and Toyota history record shows up to 90000 miles. Do you think it has been replaced once? It's not leaking. Car belongs to my son and has been very reliable but he is planning to take a long summer trip.
I regretted getting my matrix XR, it’s a 2007 model and now it has 207k miles on it. It’s slowly starting to grow on me though, and I always look forward to driving it. Im a senior in high school about to get my license in a month, and I’m going to try and make it last to 300k minimum.
right on, will reach it no problem
@@2zzlow update, 214k miles, still love it. Drive it every day it has never skipped a beat and it has never had any issues whatsoever, very easy to do maintenance
@@TheRayvin6 how's it on gas?
I too have a 03 matrix xr with 95000 I don't drive it much but I do love the car, my son calls it a piece of junk only because it's 20yrs old but everything still works including the sun roof
I bought a car just like this literally from a grandma with like 30 some thousand miles for five grand back in 2011. unfortunately I sold it 3 years later. that was a real nice car, leather seats and sunroof, factory body kit ,but no abs.
damn ohh well....maybe pick one up at a later date?
Thanks for the video. Would you still say purchasing a Toyota Matrix 2003 is a good idea in the year 2023? please what you would consider before buying a locally used one. Thanks
absolutely, even if they break down parts are available and very cheap. id personally look for a 2005+ matrix just because the 1zz engine was perfected by that time.
I like these cars
Same!
I just picked up a low mileage vibe for a winter beater and I think I'll be looking to buy another one or a matrix
right on fam!
The answer is yes. The 1zz is an incredibly reliable motor.
Yes indeed
Hi! I have the 2007 matrix and I'm having an issue where when I brake slowly, the car starts jerking slightly forward and backwards. Would you say that it's probably the same jerking issue you described? Or would I just need to put new brakes, rotors and brake fluid?
Check your engine mounts!
check motor mounts and lower control arms.
Sweet
thanks
Buying the Matrix 2008 TOMMOROW. LETS GO.
how that go?
@@2zzlow amazing , the car runs ljke new ! Ill need to buy a touch up for the paint here and there but other than that its perfect ! Got it for 6000$ it only has 172 000KM on it !
About to get one of these, would you say its around the same size as the Corolla sedan of this year just taller to make up for the hatch?
A bit bigger on the inside aswell and taller but same power plant
@@2zzlow hell yeah, i want a nice hatchback but nothing too big, seems like the perfect size. Appreciate the video man!
best car ever
indeed
Why is it a 1st car? It's an amazing worker
1st great car for anyone! Don’t want to put a new driver in an unreliable car
Hey, odd question. If I want to remove the side skirts off my XRS and go with the base model look (better ground clearance), am I going to end up with all the holes and slits from the clips? Any way to make it look decent?
Yea those holes are going to be there on the xr/xrs trim. Maybe buy some rubber plugs?
06 Carolla 22500km sweet car love it
thanks fam
I bought a blue, 2003 XR. Best car ever. It was some kind of limited sport edition. Later I found out they mfg only 26 of them. I never saw one with the same front end. Fully loaded, and tailgating was perfect, oh lord that car witnessed some crappy performances by the Houston Texans.
I got an 05. It’s a mid size car. Lots of heads space. Good passenger space. Good trunk space.
indeed!
How's the car treating you now?
Also, how's the fuel economy, like the Corolla?
I've got a 2011 Matrix S. It's a great car, my question though is......how can I get to the level my 08 Subaru was on? It had an EJ 25 making 300hp
bolt on turbo kit from turbo kits
All of us should roll together I have an 04 matrix stick and it's fun to drive
indeed my friend
hey, what is the black button by the inverter power plug switch? seems like some sort of aftermarket thing?
it was an aftermarket aux switch to enable it to the stock stereo back when i had it.
Looking at an '04 xr wagon 4d ... with 101,000 miles on it.. for $5,500.. what do y'all think? maybe i can negotiate the price a little..
I have an 2005 Toyota Matrix as well with just over 200,000 miles. Good reliable commuter vehicle like you said. Just have one quick question regarding rust and paint fading. Just curious if your roof is starting or has already started to rust like mine along with the paint peeling on the hood like mine. Have been researching this and supposedly in Toyota blogs I have been reading through the 2000s model Toyota cars were not equipped with the proper rust/oxidation prevention coat when originally manufactured. This problem has not only occurred in the matrix models also other 2000s Toyota models. While searching this on google I’ve noticed I’m not the only one that this has happened to especially on Toyota Matrix models like ours. Hopefully this issue/defect has not occurred on your car. If so just curious as to how you went about repairing/fixing it. Been researching and trying to find a low cost method to fix my car. Any input/info you can offer is appreciated. Thanks.
my hood and roof were recently resprayed. they oxidized bad
@Jeepguy30022 that was never an issue with my silver Matrix. The problem was owners weren’t waxing their cars. I know plenty of people that wax their old Toyotas, they are 20 years old, & still look brand new. My Matrix is from 2006 & still looks great. So is my uncle’s identical 2005 Matrix. Any 20 year old car will fade badly if you don’t wax it. And it’s not too often that I see a rusty Matrix, & I’m in Canada. Toyota was really good at Zinc Primer, electroplating, even back 20 years ago. This 1992 Camry I looked at with 280,000 kilometres pretty much had no rust. But the paint was gone. 30 years of no wax will do that.
Hi! I just bought a 2005 matrix and was planning on changing the stereo, I want to upgrade to a touch screen android auto/apple car stereo, do you have any recommendations or do you know if I would need a install kit for it to fit?
the install kit usually has the needed side bracket covers and harness. my MVH-1400NEX Pioneer looks very nice
What's the steering pump o ring part number?
our 2006 corolla ce’s starter just failed at 185ish too
I just got a 2003 4wd xr for my daughter she loves it so far it has 160k miles. I figured my celica has 240k 1zzfe so why not lol
I just got this car today and I was wondering is there anything that I should do to the car right away that I won’t have to worry about long term
atf for sure
Would love a Civic 08 but madam seems sold to matrix.
We have to conclude on one soon
I want to see a review of the best celica of all times ..clayton cursed celica😁😁
after its supercharged for sure
Question for you. I purchased a 2006 Matrix xr stick shift. The car is awesome even though it has over 200,000 miles. I cannot figure out what I did to stop the clock from working and the lights don't come on when opening the door. My insurance is paid by the mile and after sticking the gadget into the car, that is when the problem started. Could that it be it? No overhead lights or sunroof. The lights work when turned on but not when the door is opened as it did before. The manual is not helping me. Thanks for your response.
I’d check the dome fuse, you probably poped it
What????? They are not cheap at all. Here in Florida you will find them for $2500 and up with 200,000 miles on it.
this is the worst time to buy a vehicle. covid really sky rocket the value of some cars.
They fold flat.
And there is a small storage compartment under back seat.
No one notices.
I honestly have a deep almost hatred towards hatchbacks but the matrix honestly is one really cool car
My dad calls it a mini mini van hahaha
I have a 2004 matrix xr with a 6 speed manual with 1zz-fe
great swap on the trans
How hard is it to change that power steering pump ?
like a 7/10 difficulty
@@2zzlow Yea im looking at videos shit lookin like a shop job 🤣 everything else I can do
Hey just got 1 im looking for the front bumper what its called a lip bumper lip gate
front valences, under body spoilers
Tonight!
what about it?
You didn't comment on the fog lights! Mine looks just like yours, but it an 04 XR 4wd with 101K miles and has the 16in rims. Got it last Nov. It was neglected some but slowly I'm bringing it back to life. I was getting 24mpg but now its at 30mpg.
very good MPG from these matrix.
How did you improve your MPG so much?
Just by keeping up with the regular maintenance items that were neglected by previous owner. Also there's a few issues with this engines, like the intake manifold gasket and throttle body cleaning. Also did the transmission fluid and strainer and suspension items that we're worn out.
How much does those storage compartments go for just picked up a clean set at pick a part
new is about $100
@@2zzlow ok
There’s a matrix Xrs going for 1800 $ might buy
you should!
Where do u post your parts for sale when u go to the pick-a-parts? I needs those front bumper spoiler valances for my 04 xrs lol
Message me on Instagram I have 2 sets
But what about the XR 4wD??
Lmao I never owned one so I can’t say how reliable the 4wd system is on these matrix!
Will a 2004 front bumer fit my 2006?
yes
Is a 4wd with 202k miles on it worth the purchase for 4,300 or ask 3,900
sounds like a lot of money
Saludos ustedes venden piesas y hacen delivery para cualquier estado vivo en massachussetts
que busca?
@@2zzlow los aciento de alfrente y los 4 cabezales de la cabeza que van encima del aciento de atras y alfrente
I have a 2003 Matrix with only 61205 miles.
Wish I had a sunroof in my xrs :(
i wish i didnt actually lol
Na you don’t mine is leaking bad lmao
It's not fast but man will they last
so true my friend
does that two piece front lip fit base models ?
yes, just have to cut the holes for the tabs with a dremel
@@2zzlow how would it be installed onto the bumper? Tape or self tapping screw
Also assume side skirt and rear spoiler also fit right
Toyota blue clips they are special and yes to the last question
A dude here in Miami is selling one I think I'll get it..
do it!
What year and trim is your White Matrix?
it was an 03 XR auto
@@2zzlow thanks!!! They are so expensive now. Looking to get one as a spare for daily driving back and forth to work
Ayeee 209
indeed fam!
You are wrong, Honda fit looks small.
👍👍👍👍👍🍺😊
cheers bud
That’s funny my name’s Sebastian too and I have an 03 matrix xrs lol
Sadly mine is a XR lmao 😂
2zzlow you have a celica with a 2zz don’t you?
2zzlow but the matrix is awesome got it for 2300 3 years ago with 162000 miles it’s got 210000 now and still rips and is always a blast
@@sebastianbechtold2417 what about timing belt and water pump on these? Is that a big deal or nah? See a lot of em for sale, 150k+ miles and no one ever mentions it....?
Watch Scotty Kilmers review.
As pet reports Matrix will run upto 400k miles.
Sell me those super rare rear seat storage bags 🗣😅jkjk
The second generation hatch looks slicker but other then that small cosmetic difference the 1st generation is the best vehicle I've owned. What cant it do??
lol someone on ebay was selling them new. not sure if he still has them.
What's with you and automatics lol
It’s my dads car